TPendagast,
I 'get' where you are coming from. I think one of the problems you are running is there just aren't too many companies that are big and strong enough to afford a 40k+/year foreman with all the accessories. There are numerous owners that make less than or equal to 40k a year for themselves. Obviously it takes years to get to that point.

In other news
One idea for business owners is to register with the local community colleges and 4-year schools that offer horticulture programs. I know for 4-year degrees they require an internship to graduate. Mine was 120 hours (unpaid). Most of these places are unpaid internships, but a few places do pay. Speak with the dept head and have him put your phone number and business name on 'the list'